Hugs Cafe Inc., a nonprofit organization that offers training and employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, broke ground on a new $10 million headquarters May 7 in East McKinney.

The details

The 13,500-square-foot headquarters facility is slated to open summer 2026, Hugs Cafe Inc. Executive Director Lauren Smith said, as previously reported by Community Impact. The two-story building will house Hugs Cafe, which is set to relocate from its existing downtown location. It will also feature a state-of-the-art training academy and training kitchen, as well as four classrooms, a rooftop deck and a patio.

What happened

Prior to the ceremonial dirt turning, speakers were invited to the podium by Smith. Speakers provided anecdotes of their personal experiences with Hugs Cafe as well as the impact the new headquarters will have on the nonprofit organization.


McKinney Mayor George Fuller expressed gratitude that Ruth Thompson chose to open Hugs Cafe in McKinney 10 years ago.

“What we’re building here is hope and opportunity ... it’s something that will not just impact McKinney but ... far beyond with the programming and mission Hugs has now embraced,” Fuller said. “Hugs Cafe has held a special place in my heart ... it became far more than just a place to eat. It’s been a symbol of inclusion, purpose and love.”

Hugs Cafe Inc. Ambassador Danny Sigler spoke of his 10-year tenure with the organization, spotlighting various jobs he has held including dishwasher, server and cashier. He expressed hope that the actual headquarters will look like what is depicted in the architectural renderings displayed at the event.

“I hope it looks really great as the pictures that you see right here. It kind of looks like a cafe mixed with a hotel and all you can eat buffet restaurants,” Sigler said. “I'd also like to give out thanks to the people that are doing this, which includes Mayor George Fuller, the city of McKinney people, Hugs board members, and also Miss Ruth—for her dream coming alive and making all of this a reality.”


The inspiration

As the final speaker, Hugs Founder Ruth Thompson discussed her divine inspiration and offered gratitude for all the support she received over the years. In conclusion, she offered advice to attendees.

“When God places a calling on your heart and he gives you a dream two nights in a row—listen,” Thompson said. “Even if it seems impossible, and even if the path is unclear and you don't even know what a business plan is, he will surround you with the people, the resources and the courage to carry it out. That's what Hugs is—it's a ‘Yes’ that turned into a movement.”